New TV needed

[wazy15]

Ah all makes sense. The Sony only does HD through component, however all the newer devices require HDMI it seems. Not many sets seem to support this standard though?

[gIzzE]

I think that if you are happy with the set then there will be ways round it, a unit that converts the dvi to vga is out there so you can input the HD stuff on the VGA socket (you have got a VGA socket yeah?)
However as it sayd HD cpmpatible and it isn't you could consider swapping it.

[wazy15]

very true, but my family all like the set, as it looks nice and they are all Sony fanatics If someone could point me in the direction of a decent RGB and component box, so that I can connect multiple devices into one box and have one cable going to the TV, therefore allowing me to unplug devices and use them elsewhere.

[gIzzE]

Try www.copperbox.com for the component switchers mate. I use a Zektor HDS4.2 but the Audio Authority 1154 is very good too, and it is far cheaper to order from there than from the UK.

Can't help with RGB as I don't use it anymore.

[wazy15]

Thanks for all the thoughts chaps. gIzzE, what would you recommend as far as component cabling is concerned. Need something quick as the guys are coming to install in two days! Tempted to pick up the overpriced Monstor Cables, but the installation guy said the cheap phono leads they use will do the job?

[gIzzE]

I would use some QED component cables, the monster cables are absolute ****e! and yes I would agree that some cheap 75ohm (in other words coax cable) would do a better job. I have opened a Monster cable after getting one and seeing ringing in the picture (like a slight ghosting on right hand edges) and it is not a coax cable but more like a cheap audio cable with extra thick sheath on it.

[wazy15]

Thanks for the advice gIzzE. Got the screen installed today and very happy. Just dissapointed that my nice gold plated scarts didn't make it thru the tight walls, had to make use of thinner scarts I got my components on tho, and the scart is only for the VCR and SKY so not too bothered.

Waz

[gIzzE]

Have you got a calibration disc?

if no I would set the picture settings as follows..

contrast 45%
colour 45%
Brightness get a disc with black bars at top and bottom and keep knocking it back till they won't go any blacker, as long as you are not loosing detail in dark scenes you should be on the money pretty much.
Sharpness either 0 if it is a -10 to +10 scale or if it is a bar you want it around 10% at most
Have you got colour temp like warm cool and normal? if yeah set to normal.
Make sure you have all processing turned off too.
And make sure if there is dynamic, cinema normal etc. you choose normal or cinema before changing any settings.

[mid]

Have you got a calibration disc?

if no I would set the picture settings as follows..

Actually, if you've not got a calibration disc and you've even considered the cost of expensive cables, then I'd suggest that the ?9.99 for Digital Video Essentials is worth your while. It's got every calibration screen and audio track you'd ever want, as well as the three coloured lenses you need if you want to get your temperature sorted.

[wazy15]

Thanks for the advice chaps. Would u recommend switching Noise reduction off? I tend to find the picture to be much better with higher sharpness :S Had a slight problem. I have my dvd hooked up via component, however it doesn't pic it up. The guys who were installing had this problem and magically fixed it :S Not sure whats happened, just switched it off and now no pic via component

Waz